Privacy Policy

The Coptic Orthodox Church Diocese of Sydney (“we”, “our”, “us”) is committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and, where applicable, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Information We Collect

We may collect personal information when you:

  • Contact us via forms, email, or phone
  • Subscribe to updates or newsletters
  • Participate in church activities or events
  • Interact with our website

This information may include:

  • Name
  • Email address
  • Phone number
  • Any additional details you choose to provide

We may also collect non-personal data such as browser type, device information, and website usage through cookies.

How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

  • Respond to enquiries and provide support
  • Share updates, events, or relevant communications
  • Improve our website, services, and community engagement
  • Maintain records for administrative purposes

We only use personal information where it is reasonably necessary for our functions and activities.

Legal Basis for Processing (GDPR)

Where GDPR applies, we process your personal data based on:

  • Your consent (e.g. submitting a contact form)
  • Our legitimate interests (e.g. improving services and communication)
  • Compliance with legal obligations

Disclosure of Information

We do not sell or rent your personal information.

We may disclose information:

  • To trusted service providers who assist in operating our website
  • Where required by law
  • To protect the safety and wellbeing of individuals within our community

All third parties are required to handle your information securely.

Data Security

We take reasonable steps to protect personal information from misuse, interference, loss, unauthorised access, modification, or disclosure.

However, no online system can be guaranteed completely secure.

Data Retention

We retain personal information only for as long as necessary to fulfil the purpose for which it was collected, or as required by law.

Cookies and Website Analytics

Our website may use cookies and similar technologies to:

  • Improve user experience
  • Analyse website traffic
  • Understand how visitors use our site

You can control or disable cookies through your browser settings.

Access and Correction (Australian Privacy Act)

You have the right to:

  • Request access to the personal information we hold about you
  • Request correction of inaccurate or outdated information

To make a request, please contact us using the details below.

Your Rights (GDPR)

Where applicable, you have the right to:

  • Access your personal data
  • Request correction or deletion
  • Withdraw consent at any time
  • Object to or restrict processing
  • Lodge a complaint with a data protection authority

External Links

Our website may contain links to third-party websites.
 We are not responsible for their privacy practices or content.

Children and Vulnerable Persons

We are committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable individuals.
 Personal information relating to children is handled with additional care and in accordance with our safeguarding policies.

Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time.
 The latest version will always be available on this page.

Contact Us

If you have any questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy, please contact us via the Contact page or:

Email: BoardOfTrustees@coptic.org.au